Flash Gordon 35-05-18 (04) Death Battle Won by Flash – Summary

Release Date: June 7, 2025
Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Title: Death Battle Won by Flash

Introduction

In this thrilling installment of Flash Gordon, listeners are plunged deeper into the interplanetary adventures of their heroic protagonist as he faces new challenges on the planet Mongolia. This episode, titled "Death Battle Won by Flash," continues the saga of Flash Gordon, his steadfast companion Dale Arden, and the ingenious Dr. Zharkoff as they navigate the treacherous political and physical landscapes orchestrated by their nemesis, Emperor Ming the Merciless, and his formidable daughter, Princess Aura.

Plot Summary

Bargaining for Survival

The episode kicks off with Flash Gordon and his allies captured and imprisoned by King Voltan, the mighty ruler of the Hawk Men. In a tense confrontation in the throne room (02:43), Dr. Zharkoff steps forward to negotiate:

Dr. Zharkoff: "I do. I can save your city. But if you harm Flash Gordon, I'll doom this city and all of you hawk men to destruction." (02:50)

King Voltan challenges their proposition, questioning how they can salvage the city without their radium:

King Voltan: "But all my radium's gone. You destroyed that yourselves. How can you save us?" (02:56)

Undeterred, Dr. Zharkoff reveals their latest breakthrough—atomic light solidifiers—to maintain the city's suspension in the air. As the clock ticks down, tension mounts, culminating in Voltan agreeing to their terms under one condition: Flash must be freed.

Innovative Solutions and Tense Alliances

Dr. Zharkoff and Prince Baron lead Voltan and his entourage to Zharkoff's newly constructed invention:

Dr. Zharkoff: "This electrical machine is an atomic light solidifier." (04:45)

With the device activated, the city's stability is restored just in time:

Prince Baron: "And the city is saved. The city is saved." (05:21)

In gratitude, King Voltan appoints Dr. Zharkoff as his head scientist and declares a royal wedding to cement their newfound alliance. However, celebrations are short-lived as the imminent threat of Emperor Ming's air fleet looms over Mongolia.

The Tournament of Death

Emperor Ming's arrival introduces a new antagonist, Princess Aura, who demands Flash Gordon as her bride. Refusing, King Voltan declares a Tournament of Death:

King Voltan: "I call for a tournament of death." (07:48)

The arena is set in a colossal bowl-shaped stadium, where Flash and Prince Baron find themselves as the last contenders. As the tournament progresses, Flash faces daunting foes but is unexpectedly saved by a masked champion, whose identity shocks everyone:

Narrator: "The masked champion... was Prince Baron." (10:26)

Climactic Resolution

In the final duel, both Flash Gordon and Prince Baronfall, the masked fighter, emerge victorious by saving each other from certain death. Faced with their bravery, Princess Aura and King Voltan relent:

King Voltan: "None of your trickery, men. Proclaim them both kings." (13:03)

Princess Aura bestows upon them the kingdoms of the forest and the cave, recognizing their valor despite the kingdoms remaining unconquered:

Princess Aura: "True, Voltan, but these are brave men. Let them try." (13:25)

Notable Quotes

• Dr. Zharkoff on Saving the City:
  "I can save your city. But if you harm Flash Gordon, I'll doom this city and all of you hawk men to destruction."
  (02:50)

• Prince Baron on Time Running Out:
  "The city will remain suspended only 20 minutes more. There is no time to waste."
  (03:21)

• Princess Aura on the Contestants:
  "So be it. But I shall choose their kingdoms."
  (13:07)

Conclusion

As the episode draws to a close, Flash Gordon and Prince Baron are hailed as heroes and new kings, setting the stage for future adventures and the challenges of ruling their respective kingdoms. Princess Aura's decree hints at ongoing tensions and the promise of further trials. The narrator leaves listeners eager for the next episode, teasing more exciting developments in the amazing interplanetary adventures of Flash Gordon.

Teaser for Next Episode

What challenges await Flash Gordon as he attempts to govern the unconquered kingdom of the caves? Tune in next week on Harold's Old Time Radio for another captivating chapter in this legendary saga.

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